How do I install the stakes?

Your YardRink stakes are an important part of securing your rink and keeping everything properly in place throughout the season, helping ensure your panels stay aligned and upright and your rink performs as expected once filled with water and frozen.

Stakes should be installed after your panels are fully connected and the tarp is wrapped and secured, but before you begin filling the rink with water.

This allows the rink structure to be fully set while still giving you access to the ground for proper installation.

1. Position the Stake Locations

Stakes are installed along the outside of the straight panels. Each stake should align with the point where the panels connect to help hold the rink firmly.

2. Drive Stakes Into the Ground

Using a hammer or mallet:

• Install them at a slight angle toward the top of the rink
• Continue until the stake is flush with the top of the panel

• If you cannot hammer the stakes all the way into the earth, you can trim the top of the stakes with a hacksaw or similar so they are flush with the top of the panel. This is to keep your skaters safe while skating.

• Do not drive stakes through the tarp
• Avoid installing stakes before panels are positioned correctly
• Make sure the ground is not completely frozen, as this can make installation difficult but not impossible